Date of Graduation
Spring 2011
Degree
Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies
Department
Defense and Strategic Studies
Committee Chair
Keith Payne
Abstract
The Islamic Republic of Iran has the political will, knowledge, and capability to develop and build nuclear weapons. The purpose of this thesis is to examine Iran's nuclear program and potential U.S. policy responses to the threat of a nuclear Iran. An examination of Iran's history, strategic culture, religion, governmental structure and society gives insight into Iran's motives for weaponization. The dynamics of dual-use technology, weaponization activities, and deception by the Iranian leadership require the United States to address the likelihood that Iran will continue to pursue nuclear weapons, will not peacefully change its current course, and without intervention, will succeed in its quest to become a nuclear power.
Keywords
Iran, nuclear proliferation, Shi'a Islam, U.S. nuclear policy, nuclear deterrence
Subject Categories
Defense and Security Studies
Copyright
© Charles Forrest Yelverton
Recommended Citation
Yelverton, Charles Forrest, "Persia Rising: Iran's Nuclear Program" (2011). MSU Graduate Theses. 1468.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/1468
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